Posts

Showing posts from July, 2025

Red Sonja review – pixie-ish Matilda Lutz steps into Brigitte Nielsen’s battle corset for action remake

The revival of Nielsen’s 80s classic applies CGI and flashbacks a little too liberally, but there’s the odd glimmer of wit in an otherwise clunky script Ever since Brigitte Nielsen unlaced her battle corset after shooting ended on pulpy fantasy actioner Red Sonja back in the 1980s, there’s been talk of sequels and/or reboots. Truffle around the internet and you’ll find a saga to rival the finest in Old Norse about deals signed and projects greenlit and then abandoned over the years, with names attached to direct ranging from X-Men’s Bryan Singer to Transparent’s Joey Soloway. What a shame Soloway’s version never got off the ground because that surely would have been a hoot, and probably more interesting than this soggy, CGI-infused, low-budget confection that’s finally arrived. Little-known actor Matilda Lutz gets the lead role this time around, as well as getting all the hair extensions in the auburn aisle. She presents a Sonja that’s more a pixie-like hippy chick than Nielsen’s Val...

BREAKING: Rohit Shetty features in a rocking cameo in Ajay Devgn-starrer Son Of Sardaar 2; has a Golmaal 5 connection

The comic caper Son Of Sardaar 2, starring Ajay Devgn in the lead role, has released today and it is awaited due to its genre, star cast and grandeur. Those venturing out to see the film will be in for a surprise as a mass film personality makes a rocking appearance. This film personality is none other than Rohit Shetty. The filmmaker appears all of a sudden, though the makers do give a hint about his cameo seconds before he appears on screen. And that's not all. There's also a Golmaal 5 connection, which would be lapped up by the audience. Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty are the most celebrated and successful actor-director duo of Bollywood. Both have worked together in as many as 12 films - Zameen (2003), Golmaal (2006), Sunday (2008), Golmaal Returns (2008), All The Best (2009), Golmaal 3 (2010), Singham (2011), Bol Bachchan (2012), Golmaal Again (2017), Simmba (2018), Sooryavanshi (2021) and Singham Again (2024). Golmaal 5 will be their thirteenth film together and the excite...

Ishita Dutta gets hospitalised alongside son Vayu; actress reveals health scare after recent birth of second child

Actress Ishita Dutta has shared a deeply personal and emotional update with fans, revealing that she and her firstborn, Vayu, were both recently hospitalised. The actress, who welcomed her second child—a daughter named Veda—with husband and actor Vatsal Sheth in June this year, posted a heart-wrenching photo on social media showing both her and little Vayu’s hands bandaged with IV drips. In her caption, Ishita wrote, "It's been a really tough month... At a time when I was supposed to be with my newborn, I was making hospital rounds instead. Thankfully, both Vaayu and I are doing much better now." While the actress did not reveal the exact cause of the hospitalisation, her post drew an outpouring of love and concern from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Many praised her strength in dealing with the emotional and physical toll of being ill while also caring for a newborn. The Drishyam star further addressed the noticeable change in her appearance in recent weeks, especi...

Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight set to write next James Bond movie

Reports say British writer, whose credits include Dirty Pretty Things, will work with Denis Villeneuve on relaunch The British screenwriter Steven Knight has reportedly been tapped to write the next James Bond movie. According to Deadline , Knight recently met the director Denis Villeneuve and landed the job after various other writers were also considered. Villeneuve is currently filming the third Dune instalment. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/J3zDtcy via IFTTT

Jeremy Strong eyed to play Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Network sequel

The Succession star is reportedly the leading choice to play the controversial tech mogul in Aaron Sorkin’s follow-up Jeremy Strong is reportedly the leading choice to play Mark Zuckerberg in the upcoming sequel to The Social Network. According to Deadline and Variety , sources claim that though no formal offer has been made, the Succession actor is the preferred pick to play the Meta CEO and Facebook founder in The Social Network Part II, alongside The Bear’s Jeremy Allen White and Anora’s Mikey Madison in unspecified roles. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/xR5uEVB via IFTTT

‘It’s the best monster ever invented’: Noah Hawley on bringing Ridley Scott’s Alien to TV

The writer-director defied expectations to turn the film Fargo into one of the best TV shows of the decade. Now he’s taking on an even bigger franchise. Can lightning strike twice? When it was first announced in 2013, the thought of Fargo being reimagined as a TV miniseries felt practically sacrilegious. The 1996 neo-noir starring Frances McDormand as a kindly Minnesota police chief was a singular film that had won two Oscars. Surely its distinctive Coen brothers vibe would get shredded in the woodchipper of TV adaptation? Back then, Noah Hawley, the screenwriter who took on the job, would have agreed. “It seemed like such a terrible idea,” he says via video call from a Long Island holiday bolthole. “Which is sort of why I liked it. The risk/reward was really high.” Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/yFGRncx via IFTTT

Vijay Sethupathi on being accused of a sexual offence, “This kind of filthy

The minute this writer read a girl named Ramya accusing Vijay Sethupathi for sexually exploiting an unknown girl, he sent the actor, a dear friend and an artiste and human being he truly admires, an anxious message. Vijay immediately called and said, “Sir, you know me for years. Anyone who knows me even remotely would laugh at this. I know myself also. And this kind of filthy accusation can’t upset me. Sir, you seem more upset than I am. My family and close friends are also upset. To this I say, just let it slide. The woman is obviously doing it to be noticed. She has her few minutes of fame, let her enjoy it.” Is Vijay going to let such an accusation slide? “No, Sir. I am not saying that. I am only saying that I won’t allow it to upset me. I’ve faced all kinds of whispering campaigns for seven years. Such targeting has not affected me so far. It never will.” Vijay finds the timing of the current slander shady. “Sir, look at the timing! My new film is doing well. ...

Mohit Suri reveals Ahaan Panday’s YRF debut was scrapped post-covid; says, “His pride and confidence were completely shattered”

The Saiyaara craze has taken the country by storm, catapulting Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda to instant fame. During a recent conversation with Komal Nahta, director Mohit Suri shared that Ahaan was initially supposed to debut in a grand YRF project, but it was ultimately scrapped. He also mentioned spending four months working closely with Ahaan to help him look more mature on screen. Mohit Suri revealed that Ahaan and Aneet each had distinct paths leading up to their debut. He said, “Ahaan has been doing acting workshops with YRF for the last seven years. Before COVID, Ahaan and YRF were planning a grand, larger-than-life film. But post-COVID, cinema changed, and the project was dropped. The same guy who was telling everyone about his big launch—his pride and confidence were completely shattered.” He went on to say, “People began asking him, ‘Weren’t you supposed to be launched by YRF? What happened now?’ I just know that Aditya Chopra called him after COVID and told him, ‘My faith ...

‘Everybody was fondling underwater!’: an oral history of the Rocky Horror Picture Show at 50

Mick Jagger wanted to play Frank-N-Furter, Susan Sarandon got pneumonia, and the cast were wet and half-naked most of the time. Richard O’Brien, Barry Bostwick, Patricia Quinn and Nell Campbell tell the surprising, seductive story of cinema’s longest-running cult smash The Rocky Horror Picture Show was released in cinemas in late 1975 with little fanfare, but the provocative musical, with its campy parody of sci-fi and horror B-movies, fabulous costumes and rollicking songs, dug its glittering heels in and refused to let go for the next 50 years. The film was an adaptation of the hit musical The Rocky Horror Show, created by Richard O’Brien when he was an unemployed actor. The story of Dr Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), an alien, transvestite scientist, decked out like a bewitching glam rock god and hellbent on seducing everyone around him, galvanised audiences into participating in a way that had never been seen before. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/uwV...

Son of Sardaar 2 Advance Bookings open with BOGO offer, but box office journey may be bumpy

The much-awaited action-comedy Son of Sardaar 2 is all set to storm cinemas this Friday, August 1, 2025. Headlined by Ajay Devgn and backed by Jio Studios, the film’s advance bookings are now officially open — and to sweeten the deal for fans, the makers have announced a special Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) ticket offer, applicable only for first day shows across select theatres. The promotional offer is a strategic push to boost footfalls on opening day and create early buzz for the sequel, which follows up on the 2012 hit Son of Sardaar. The film promises to retain the franchise’s signature mix of slapstick humour, over-the-top action, and Punjabi family drama — all centred around Devgn’s larger-than-life persona. 'SON OF SARDAAR 2' ADVANCE BOOKINGS OPEN – BOGO OFFER ANNOUNCED... #SonOfSardaar2 advance bookings are now LIVE.#AjayDevgn and #JioStudios have announced a special BOGO [Buy One Get One] free ticket offer – valid only for *first day shows*. Releasing in cinemas THI...

Tanishaa Mukerji blasts critic for calling Saiyaara success ‘fake’: “What rubbish is this man saying?”

Tanishaa Mukerji has come out strongly in defence of the recently released romantic musical Saiyaara, after a podcast speaker accused the film’s team of paying Gen-Z audiences to create emotional scenes in theatres for promotional purposes. The controversial statement was made during The Asymmetric Crew podcast, which featured the creator of The Barber Shop with Shantanu. A speaker, during a candid segment, alleged that the emotional reactions seen in theatres post-Saiyaara screenings were not genuine. “What's happening with this ridiculous Saiyaara movie. The producer of this movie, in my view, has paid ₹500 in dehadi to lots of these Gen-Z young folks to go into these theatres and put on emotional performances of crying… This is how the movie is getting promoted by the way. The whole world has now become a bunch of performers,” the speaker claimed, sparking outrage online. In a sharp rebuttal, actress and producer Tanishaa Mukerji dismissed the criticism, calling it baseless an...

My Best Friend’s Wedding 2: Celine Song to write sequel to hit comedy

The Past Lives and Materialists writer-director is set to pen a follow-up to the dark, Julia Roberts-led 1997 favourite A sequel to 1997 comedy My Best Friend’s Wedding is in the works with Celine Song tapped to write the screenplay. According to Collider , the playwright turned writer-director, who broke out with Oscar-nominated drama Past Lives , has reportedly been hired by Sony as the film enters early development. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/yP2qNA8 via IFTTT

The Banished review – cultish terrors lurk in the Australian outback

The folk-horror wave opens an Aussie branch in this shrewdly splintered tale of a city girl returning to her roots where chthonic menace awaits Weirdos in animal masks, summary executions, rituals that envelop you in a strange sense of predestination; thanks to the folk-horror crowd, you can’t go for a country walk these days without expecting to stumble into some uncanny pagan savagery. This Australian thriller subscribes unquestioningly to all of the above tropes, but its delicately splintered narrative and feel for outback disorientation and dismay mark out a distinctive trail – until it disintegrates to the point the film can only turn in circles. Prodigal city girl Grace (Meg Eloise-Clarke) comes back to her home town in the bush to search for her missing brother David (Gautier de Fontaine), who saved her from their abusive father. Nosing around this depressing outpost, she hears rumours of a mysterious commune out in the wilderness drawing in local vagrants and drifters. Her un...

BREAKING: 'Kesariya' team reunites for Hrithik Roshan–Kiara Advani’s romantic 'Flashback' song in War 2

In what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated tracks of the year, Bollywood Hungama can exclusively confirm that the hitmaking team behind the iconic ‘Kesariya’—director Ayan Mukerji, composer Pritam, lyricist Amitabh Bhattacharya, and singer Arijit Singh—are reuniting for a romantic track in War 2, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Kiara Advani. The track, which is expected to drop this week, will be the first song from War 2 to be released, just ahead of the film’s grand Independence Day weekend opening on August 14, 2025. The internet has been buzzing with chatter about this reunion, and now, the collaboration has been officially confirmed by Yash Raj Films, the producers of the upcoming spy action thriller. While YRF spokesperson confirms the latest update, they refrained from giving away plot details, but a source close to the development reveals, “It is a beautiful track that shows the romance between Hrithik and Kiara’s characters in War 2. The song is soft, emotional, and...

Vidya Balan joins Vasmol as brand ambassador for new henna crème range

In a strategic move to modernize its heritage brand, Vasmol has officially signed acclaimed actress Vidya Balan as the brand ambassador for its newly launched Vasmol Henna Crème Hair Colour and Shampoo Hair Colour lines. This launch marks a shift to a newer format—amenity‑based, ammonia‑free crème products—blending traditional henna benefits with modern convenience. Vasmol’s CEO, Dheeraj Arora, highlighted the brand’s legacy, “For over six decades, Vasmol has been an integral part of Indian homes, cherished not just in daily rituals but also deeply within our hearts. Our newest offering, Vasmol Henna Crème Hair Colour, signifies another meaningful step forward, where tradition meets modern convenience. Vidya Balan is the perfect embodiment of Vasmol's core values, rooted in tradition yet modern in her choices. Her authentic persona resonates deeply with Indian women who value genuine, enduring beauty.” Priyanka Puri, Senior VP–Marketing at Vasmol’s parent company HRIPL, reinforce...

BREAKING: 'Kesariya' team reunites for Hrithik Roshan–Kiara Advani’s romantic 'Flashback' song in War 2

In what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated tracks of the year, Bollywood Hungama can exclusively confirm that the hitmaking team behind the iconic ‘Kesariya’—director Ayan Mukerji, composer Pritam, lyricist Amitabh Bhattacharya, and singer Arijit Singh—are reuniting for a romantic track in War 2, featuring Hrithik Roshan and Kiara Advani. The track, which is expected to drop this week, will be the first song from War 2 to be released, just ahead of the film’s grand Independence Day weekend opening on August 14, 2025. The internet has been buzzing with chatter about this reunion, and now, the collaboration has been officially confirmed by Yash Raj Films, the producers of the upcoming spy action thriller. While YRF spokesperson confirms the latest update, they refrained from giving away plot details, but a source close to the development reveals, “It is a beautiful track that shows the romance between Hrithik and Kiara’s characters in War 2. The song is soft, emotional, and...

My Worst Enemy review – Iranian exile recreates torture and interrogation in study of regime power

Mehran Tamadon’s film about autocracy in Iran could have revealed more about methods of control, despite a star turn from Zar Amir Ebrahimi Film-maker Mehran Tamadon is preoccupied with the question of conscience, especially in contexts of extreme power imbalance. An Iranian exiled in France, he has made documentaries about the most fervent supporters of the Islamic regime, starting with Bassidji in 2009. In 2012, Tamadon was detained by Iranian authorities for hours of questioning, and though he was subsequently released, he became persona non grata in his home country. Now the director has turned to the tools of film-making to try to lay out a path for a return. He gathered a group of fellow exiles, with whom he re-created the lengthy interrogation sessions they once endured. His hope was that that final film would stir introspection, and even empathy, in the hearts of their former tormenters. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/IsPc35J via IFTTT

Raveena Tandon confirms Aranyak Season 2 is not happening: “I think Season Two was written as well”

After months of speculation and hopeful anticipation, actress Raveena Tandon has finally broken her silence on the status of Aranyak Season 2 — and it’s not the news fans were hoping for. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Tandon confirmed that the sequel to Netflix India’s 2021 hit crime thriller has been shelved. “It’s not happening. Now I can say it,” she admitted candidly. “Earlier, we all had hope. In fact, I think season two was written as well, but I am not sure what the platform has in mind.” Tandon, who portrayed the fierce and emotionally layered cop Kasturi Dogra, had earned widespread acclaim for her powerful performance in the series. The show marked her series debut and was praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and engaging mystery that blended folklore with modern-day crime. “Every time they say, ‘Oh my God, it was a great show and one of our highest-viewed shows immediately after COVID.’ That was a role so close to my heart, and I loved playing tha...

Heidi: Rescue of the Lynx review – baby lynx is extra ingredient in new version of classic Alpine yarn

Also adding an evil land developer to the well-loved children’s story of a kindly girl in the Swiss mountains is ultimately uninspiring In a picturesque mountain village in the Swiss Alps, a property developer named Schnaittinger is working away to convince the naive local inhabitants that his proposal for a new sawmill is just what they need to get their economy humming. In this inoffensive and ultimately uninspiring children’s animation, peppy little tomboy Heidi realises pretty quickly that this self-styled entrepreneur – sample line: “Machines can help us live a better life” – really only cares about his own profit margins. Heidi and her friend Peter are given an added incentive to foil the bad guy’s dastardly schemes in the form of an adorable baby lynx that would be imperilled by the development of the area. The lynx is cute in that standard no-brainer kid’s animation way, with big eyes and a stumbling gait guaranteed to tap directly into the “preserve and protect” part of your...

Vineet Kumar Singh and wife Ruchira welcome their first child, a baby boy!

Actor Vineet Kumar Singh and his wife Ruchira Singh have embraced parenthood as they welcomed their first child, a baby boy, three years after tying the knot. The joyous announcement was made by the couple on Sunday via a heartfelt social media post. Sharing their happiness with fans and well-wishers, the couple wrote, “God’s kindness overflows! Move over world, the littlest Singh has arrived and he’s already stealing hearts and milk bottles. Thank you, God, for this precious little bundle of joy! – Ruchira & Viineet.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Viineet Kumar Siingh (@vineet_ksofficial) The post was quickly met with a wave of congratulations from fellow actors and friends across the industry. Actor Vikrant Massey extended his warm wishes with a comment that read, “Bahut bahut badhai bhai sahab.” Ahana Kumra added, “Such good news you two!!! Can’t wait to meet the little one!!” while Avinash Tiwary and Rasika Dugal also shared their joy with heart...

Deepika Padukone joins Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish, Amal Clooney on The Shift Global Impact list

Global cultural publication ‘The Shift’ has unveiled its latest list of over 90 extraordinary women spanning activism, creativity, leadership, and cultural influence, names include Amal Clooney, Mariska Hargitay, Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish, Angelina Jolie, Amanda Gorman, Jessica Chastain, Olivia Rodrigo, Lucy Liu, Misty Copeland, Billie Jean King… and Indian actor Deepika Padukone. A global icon, Deepika’s recognition not only reflects her cinematic impact but also her work in mental health advocacy and women’s empowerment through her Live Love Laugh Foundation. Sharing the proud moment on social media, Deepika posted, “In tribute to the one and only Gloria Steinem and her 91 years of activism, The Shift is honoring 90 voices shaping our future.@theshiftison grateful for the honour… #TheShiftIsOn”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by दीपिका पादुकोण (@deepikapadukone) As part of this inaugural issue that celebrates the 91 years of contribution by Gloria Steine...

Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 in the works; Huma Qureshi to join cast: Report

If the buzz in the industry is anything to go by, Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 is officially in the pipeline, nearly two decades after the cult satirical comedy first hit theatres in 2006. The original film—starring Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Navin Nischol, Pravin Dabbas, Tara Sharma, Ranvir Shorey, and Vinay Pathak—earned widespread acclaim for its quirky yet grounded portrayal of middle-class Delhi and its battle against corruption and real estate scams. According to a recent Pinkvilla report, the sequel is now in active development, with Umesh Bisht and his team at the helm of scripting and casting. A source close to the project confirmed, “Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 script is locked and presently in the casting stage. The team is aiming to start by November this year for a 2026 release. Much like the first part, this one too is an outright comic entertainer.” The biggest update so far is the addition of actress Huma Qureshi to the ensemble. The source further revealed, “Huma has come on board as on...

Akshay Kumar DENIES Hera Pheri 3 rift with Paresh Rawal was "publicity stunt": "There were some ups and downs. But now everything is solved"

The third instalment of the cult 2000s comedy Hera Pheri has been making headlines ever since it was announced. After months of speculation, legal battles, and statements from the cast, Akshay Kumar has finally cleared the air, bringing some much-needed good news for fans. In an exclusive chat on The Right Angle with Sonal Kalra Season 2, produced by Gautam Thakker Films, Akshay Kumar said, "Nahi, yeh publicity stunt nahi hai. The things went legal, so when legal things are involved, we cannot call it a publicity stunt; it is a real thing.” He further added, “But ab sab kuch thik ho gaya hai. Very soon, some kind of announcement can come. Yes, there were some ups and downs. But now everything is solved, and we are back together, and we have always been together. Yes, that's it!" In the same interview, Akshay Kumar also lauded the success of Saiyaara. He said, “I think it's the best thing that has happened. One of the great things for the Hindi film industry is that ...

REVEALED: Varun Dhawan shoots for six days for Ayushmann Khurrana-Rashmika Mandanna starrer Thama; Vampire vs Bhediya battle expected to be a VISUAL spectacle

The Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe has emerged as a huge success, more so after its last film, Stree 2 (2024), earned more than Rs. 500 crores at the box office. As a result, the excitement is tremendous for its next film, Thama. It stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal and is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024), which was also a surprise success from this universe. It is common knowledge now that Varun Dhawan will reprise the role of Bhediya in this film. Bollywood Hungama has learned more information about the appearance of the young actor in this film. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Varun Dhawan has a lot more screen time in Thama, than in Stree 2. Even in Stree 2, he was a highlight and here, the makers have ensured that the impact of his performance is many notches higher. He shot for as many as 6 days, which clearly indicates how crucial he is to the narrative.” The source further said, “Varun Dhawan plays Bhedi...

‘Generations of women have been disfigured’: Jamie Lee Curtis lets rip on plastic surgery, power, and Hollywood’s age problem

The actor explains how she is fighting back against the ‘cosmeceutical industrial complex’ and why she has finally found freedom at 66 years old I’m scheduled to speak to Jamie Lee Curtis at 2pm UK time, and a few minutes before the allotted slot I dial in via video link, to be met with a vision of the 66-year-old actor sitting alone in a darkened room, staring impassively into the camera. “Morning,” she says, with comic flatness, as I make a sound of surprise that is definitely not a little scream. Oh, hi!! I say, Are you early or am I late? Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/OgXmnV9 via IFTTT

“Ekta Kapoor no longer associated with ALTT”: Balaji Telefilms clarifies stand after Indian government bans 24 OTT platforms for distributing 'vulgar' content

Following the Indian government’s recent crackdown on 24 OTT platforms for allegedly broadcasting explicit content, one of the names that surfaced was ALTT, formerly known as ALTBalaji. Amid widespread speculation and media coverage, Balaji Telefilms Limited has issued a strong clarification distancing producer Ekta Kapoor and her mother Shobha Kapoor from the platform. In an official statement released on July 26, Balaji Telefilms emphasized that the company is a “professionally run media organization” listed on both the BSE and NSE. The statement further confirmed that ALTT is now operated solely by Balaji Telefilms, following the approved amalgamation of ALT Digital Media Entertainment Ltd. with the parent company as of June 20, 2025. “No Longer Associated Since 2021” The clarification was issued in response to media reports suggesting that ALTT had been disabled by authorities and still had ties to Ekta and Shobha Kapoor. “Contrary to such reports, Ms. Ekta Kapoor and Mrs. Shobha ...

REVEALED: Kiara Advani’s character Kavya in Hrithik Roshan-Jr NTR starrer War 2 is the daughter of Colonel Luthra played by Ashutosh Rana

The trailer of the biggest Hindi film of 2025, War 2, was finally unveiled earlier in the day. Unlike promos of other big-scale films, it doesn’t follow the set template. Most of the dialogues are in the form of voiceovers. Also, as reported by Bollywood Hungama earlier, it has a duration of less than 3 minutes (2 minutes and 35 seconds). As expected, it further touches upon the face-off between Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. But if you observe closely, it also gives out a clue about the character of Kiara Advani. In the teaser of War 2, which was unveiled on May 20, 2025, Kiara Advani’s bikini-clad avatar stole the show, though she appeared for a mere two seconds. But in the trailer, she gets a lot of relevance. The trailer hints that she is the love interest of Hrithik’s cool spy character, Kabir. But she’s not just an arm candy in the film. She also gets a chance to do action and that also stands out in the trailer. However, one quick shot that is significant is whe...

Hrithik Roshan returns as Kabir in War 2: Trailer teases high-octane clash with Jr. NTR and Kiara Advani

The much-anticipated trailer of War 2, the sixth installment in Yash Raj Films’ expanding Spy Universe, is finally out. Clocking in at 2 minutes and 39 seconds, the trailer marks the return of Hrithik Roshan as Kabir — this time in a meaner, more enigmatic avatar. Sharing the trailer, Hrithik Roshan took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, "It will not be easy to take sides in this War." Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 stars Hrithik Roshan, Jr. NTR, and Kiara Advani in lead roles, and introduces a layered conflict with no clear good or bad. The visuals hint at a clash of ideologies, loyalties, and strategies — with Kabir caught at the heart of it all. The trailer shows Hrithik navigating through themes of patriotism and romance while facing off against both Jr NTR and Kiara Advani in a series of elaborate action sequences. Ashutosh Rana also returns as Colonel Luthra, adding another layer of tension to the narrative. One particular moment pays homage to War (2019), where Hr...

The Bad Guys 2 review – gang of cuddly animal criminals get pulled back in for one last heist

Snappier, funnier and more relaxed than the first film, this caper sees the crew dragged back to villainy by a ‘MacGuffinite’ plot Here’s one of the few animated kids’ sequels you can approach without strapping into a hazmat suit for protection. DreamWorks’s franchise hits its stride with this minor upgrade – a snappier, funnier and more relaxed movie than the original. It begins like a Bond or Bourne with a death-defying car chase around Cairo after the gang of criminal predators pull off yet another a splashy heist. Behind the wheel of the getaway car is ringleader Mr Wolf (voiced by Sam Rockwell, and doing such a decent Clooney impersonation that George should shake him down for royalties). Actually, the chase is a flashback to five years ago. Right now, in the present, Mr Wolf, Mr Snake, Mr Shark and the gang have gone straight. But their fresh start as good guys is scuppered by a snow leopard and a frame-up for a series of daring heists involving a precious metal called MacGuffi...

Yo Yo Honey Singh launches luxury watch brand in collaboration with Titan: ‘Yo Yo Watches’ now official

Rapper and music producer Yo Yo Honey Singh has entered the world of luxury fashion with the launch of his own watch brand, Yo Yo Watches, in collaboration with Titan. The exclusive limited-edition collection was unveiled at a high-profile event attended by comedian Kapil Sharma and actor-singer Shehnaaz Gill. The collection is described as a blend of bold design, meticulous engineering, and Singh’s signature aesthetic. Featuring standout bezels, precision mechanics, and a distinctive street-luxe appeal, the watches aim to reflect the artist’s personal style and evolution. “I don't follow time. Time follows me,” said Singh at the launch. Known for his longstanding love of watches, Singh has often been spotted wearing rare and custom-made timepieces. According to insiders, his personal collection includes a dedicated travel trunk filled with unique and unreleased models. Yo Yo Watches is pitched as an extension of Honey Singh’s journey through fame, adversity, and reinvention. “T...

Huma Qureshi starrer Bayaan selected for TIFF 2025 Discovery section; becomes only Indian film in line-up

Bayaan, a police procedural thriller headlined by Huma Qureshi, has been officially selected for the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film will have its world premiere in TIFF’s Discovery section, making it the only Indian title featured in the category this year. Written and directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra of Chauranga fame, Bayaan is a co-production between Platoon One Films and Summit Studios, with additional producers Kunal Kumar and Anuj Gupta, and Switzerland-based Sadik Keshwani (Guidant Films) as co-producer. Huma Qureshi also serves as an executive producer. The film was developed through Film Independent’s LA Residency, part of the Global Media Makers (GMM) program. During the residency, Mishra was mentored by Craig Mazin (Chernobyl, The Last of Us), and received guidance from writer Jeff Stockwell and story editor Ruth Atkinson. Mishra said, “It is my attempt to bear witness to a society in transition — and to the quiet courage of those who choose to s...

Janhvi Kapoor slams Kalyan assault video in fiery post; says, “What kind of upbringing is this?”

Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor has strongly condemned a shocking incident from Kalyan that has left social media fuming. A disturbing video, which has gone viral across platforms, shows a man identified as Gokul Jha brutally dragging a female hospital receptionist by her hair after she reportedly denied his demand to jump the queue. The victim, who sustained multiple injuries, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dombivli. The accused has since been detained by the police. Reacting to the harrowing visuals, Janhvi took to her Instagram stories to express her anger and disbelief. “This man needs to be in jail. Why does anyone think this behaviour is ok? What makes him think he can raise his hand at someone like this?” “What kind of upbringing convinces you to go through with these actions without any remorse, guilt or sense of humanity? How do you live with yourself after knowing this is how your brain operates? What a shame. And shame on us for not punishing and condoni...

Makers of Mahesh Manjrekar’s Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale SLAM Everest’s Public Notice – “False, misleading, and without basis”

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report on July 12 that Everest Entertainment published a public notice in Atul Mohan’s Complete Cinema magazine in the June 28 – July 5, 2025 issue, informing the public and industry that they have the rights to the 2009 cult Marathi film Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy. The notice was published after the teaser of Mahesh Manjrekar’s Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale was dropped online. The film is all set to release on Diwali and is perceived as a spiritual sequel to Mi Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the makers of Punha Shivajiraje Bhosale, on July 7, have also published a public notice, in reply to the public notice of Everest Entertainment. The notice was published in Film Information Magazine by advocate Manjit Singh Jolly. It stated that “The public in general and the media and entertainment industry in particular are hereby informed that at or around 28-06-2025 and 05-07-2025, a p...

Zero review – Senegalese time-bomb thriller is a blast

An American wakes up on a Dakar bus to find an explosive device strapped to his chest in Jean Luc Herbulot’s propulsive and strikingly shot action thriller Set in Senegal’s capital Dakar, this action thriller is so strikingly shot, so propulsively edited and so confident in its tonal shifts that by the end viewers are likely to feel enervated and stunned, but in a good way. It has one of those literal ticking-time-bomb narratives; a corny device to be sure, but one that Congolese writer-director Jean Luc Herbulot, with assistance from main actor and co-writer Hus Miller, manipulates in fresh and interesting ways. Certainly it will inspire some viewers to take a plunge into Herbulot’s back catalogue, which includes festival-anointed gangster-horror flick Saloum , another adept genre mash-up set in Senegal. The conceit here is that Miller’s white, American-accented unnamed protagonist, called simply #1 in freeze-framed titles, wakes up on a Dakar bus with a sophisticated bomb strapped ...

‘You think God didn’t make gay men?’ Comedian Leslie Jones on religion, grief and getting famous at 47

She was Saturday Night Live’s oldest hire, then faced a torrent of abuse after her role in the Ghostbusters reboot. She talks about the deaths of her mum, dad and brother – and why she’s given up dating men It’s early evening in a photography studio in west London, and the American comedian Leslie Jones is capering about, dressed in a full-length gold lamé ballgown and smoking. “Make me look skinny,” she says to the photographer’s departing back. “I’m 6ft tall – I can’t cut my feet off,” she says, later. “I can’t stop being a scary motherfucker. This is who I am – let me work with who I am.” Yet, she is the opposite of scary. Statuesque, no question, but whatever she’s doing, whether peering into a bag of fish and chips as if it’s alive, or telling her assistant to read The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho’s trust-the-universe novel, for the 100th time, there is always somebody laughing. She brings an air of deliberate chaos, which you just have to surrender to, wherever the conversation lead...

The Fantastic Four: First Steps review – Marvel regains buoyancy with wacky superhero family sitcom

In a retro-futurist version of early 1960s New York, Mr Fantastic and Sue Storm are living together as a dysfunctional family with the Human Torch and the Thing – with a baby on the way Baby steps, in fact. Marvel has rediscovered the lighthearted dimension of superheroism, the buoyant fun and the primary colour comedy – as opposed to the wiseacre supercool of, say, Guardians of the Galaxy. Here it has amusingly brought back the Fantastic Four in their early years (but not to the very beginning) in a retro-futurist version of early 1960s New York where no one smokes. Hilariously, the Four are of course living together as a family in a bizarre hi-tech apartment, like something in TV’s Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie, often wearing their comfy blue pyjama-style outfits. Scientist Dr Reed “Mr Fantastic” Richards, whose nickname rather oversells his peculiar superpower of stretchiness, is played by Pedro Pascal in a lighter vocal register than usual; he’s married to Sue “Invisible Woman”...

Osiris review – Linda Hamilton drops in to rescue charmingly hokey space-horror

The fella-in-a-suit aliens resembling past pop culture beasties are a strength of an entertaining abduction adventure An entertaining-enough space-horror, a mishmash of storylines and character types that sees some special forces commandos abducted by a gang (herd? flock? troop?) of aliens whose intentions are aligned more closely with the likes of the predator than lovely little ET the Extra-Terrestrial. The pop culture off-worlders these beasties most resemble physically, however, are the xenomorphs from James Cameron’s Aliens – and not the massive multi-limbed queen, mind you, but the smaller foot-soldier guys who can be played by a fella in a suit. This fella-in-a-suit aspect is the one of the film’s strengths. You might argue that it hinders the willing suspension of disbelief, because you always know you’re looking at a fella in a suit. But in truth there’s something about the physicality of even the hokiest practical effect that is more enjoyable than all but the most skilfull...

Farah Khan reveals YouTube show’s success helped Dilip’s kids get quality education; says, “I could put his kids in an English-medium school. And I admitted one to culinary school”

Farah Khan’s cook, Dilip, has become a familiar face to many, thanks to the filmmaker-choreographer’s YouTube vlogs and cooking videos. Gaining considerable popularity, Dilip is now a well-known name. In a recent vlog, Farah Khan shared that, with their YouTube show performing successfully, she has enrolled Dilip’s children in an English-medium school. Additionally, one of his kids is currently attending culinary school, training to become a chef. In her vlog, Farah Khan said, “Because our show is working, I could put his kids in an English-medium school. And I admitted one to culinary school, so she doesn’t have to work in homes—she can work in hotels.” She further added, “Dilip has fed so many people… now karma is feeding him." Dilip, who has three children, now sees all of them receiving skill-based training and English-medium education, thanks to his rise as a YouTube celebrity. However, did you know that Dilip also owns a three-storey bungalow in his hometown, Darbhanga, B...

Subhash Ghai lauds Saiyaara’s success; says, “Big stars don't guarantee big success”

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai has expressed his admiration for the success of Saiyaara, emphasizing the importance of storytelling over star-driven casts. Known for directing iconic films like Pardes and Taal, Ghai shared his thoughts on the changing dynamics of cinema and praised Saiyaara for proving that compelling narratives continue to resonate with audiences. In a social media post shared on Sunday, Ghai commended the film for showcasing how heartfelt storytelling, the fresh pairing of Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, and balanced production values can outperform exaggerated marketing and inflated star salaries. He wrote, “When a new star cast film creates a wave at box office. It sends us a clear msg to investors n producers not to make an over budget film more than a good story needs - not to invest on main actors more than your production cost - no money spend on stars whims - no extra spend on marketing stunts. Audience is surely ready to accept a good heart warming film with r...

‘I am elated each time I watch’: why Rushmore is my feelgood movie

The next in our series of writers drawing attention to their most-watched comfort films is a reminder of Wes Anderson’s idiosyncratic 1998 comedy “Let’s hope it’s got a happy ending,” Herman Blume, played by Bill Murray in one of his best roles, says near the end of Wes Anderson’s 1998 film Rushmore. He makes the remark about an over-the-top, literally pyrotechnic school play that his teenage friend Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman) has just debuted to an audience of dazed teachers and parents. But his comment stands in for the whole movie, an audacious and risky comedy that should not work, but does. I am elated each time I watch this poignant, wise and wildly funny film – and, yes, there is a happy ending. Rushmore is about children trying to act like adults and adults acting like children. Fischer is a precocious scholarship student at Rushmore, a prestigious private boys’ school. He is the sort of bright but naive young person who tries to impress an adult by telling them, with a s...

Sofonisba’s Chess Game review – pioneering female Renaissance artist gets her due

Documentary analysis of benchmark 16th-century painting is absorbing but focus on a single work misses the chance to reveal an extraordinary life Like its predecessors from the Ideas Roadshow series, this essay film looks like a high-grade PowerPoint presentation but shines because of its exceptional subject: the pioneering female Renaissance artist Sofonisba Anguissola and her psychologically luminous portraiture. The film is centred on this queen’s gambit: her c 1555 portrait of her three sisters and housemaid playing chess, which clocked up numerous firsts. Apart from being the first Renaissance all-female group painting and the first to juxtapose women of different classes, its most groundbreaking accomplishment was depicting real-life – rather than symbolic or idealised – women. Narrated by Elizabeth van Sebelle, the film sticks to basic summaries to relay the context. Born around 1532 into a lapsed aristocratic family from Cremona, as the eldest child Anguissola got a fancy Ca...

Burkitt review – fascinating film intertwines lives of patient and trailblazing surgeon

Director Éanna Mac Cana combines a diary of his cancer treatment with a probing portrait of Irish paediatrician Denis Burkitt who gave his name to the condition In Éanna Mac Cana’s probing documentary, two lives are entwined with fascinating results. The seeds for the film were first planted when Mac Cana was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer; his diaristic videos capture the loneliness of his treatment, spent within the cold, yellow walls of hospital rooms. Through the lens of his digital camera, he occasionally takes in the distant, blurry sight of tower blocks, or his mother cycling to the clinic. The world outside appears impenetrable; all the while, the film reaches beyond what the eyes can see. Then, turning to the past, Mac Cana juxtaposes his lived experience of illness with the life story of Denis Burkitt, the trailblazing Irish surgeon after whom Mac Cana’s condition was named. From archival materials as well as interviews with experts and Burk...

BREAKING: In a RARE instance, Saiyaara’s Monday morning shows run with strong occupancy in several centres; YRF goes against the norm and opts for Tuesday cheap ticket offer

eet PaddThe Saiyaara wave refuses to die down. Usually, there is a drop in collections on weekdays after a film performs exceptionally well on weekends. But the latest Yash Raj Films (YRF) release is proving to be an exception. As per reports coming from across the country, Saiyaara is all set to put up a huge number on the weekdays. The advance booking for Monday is very strong and what has caught the eye is that YRF has gone against the norm by incorporating the Tuesday offer. Since April, theatres across the country have decided to sell tickets at discounted rates, that is, at Rs. 99/149/199, every Tuesday. Films that tend to do well in Week 1, like Raid 2 and Sitaare Zameen Par, didn’t opt for this offer. But YRF has refused to follow in the footsteps of the Ajay Devgn-starrer and Aamir Khan-starrer. A trade expert commented, “It is a given that Saiyaara’s craze is tremendous and even without the offer, the occupancy on Tuesday would h...

BREAKING: After Son of Sardaar 2 Suneel Darshan shifts release of Andaaz 2 to August 8 amid Saiyaara wave

First Son of Sardar 2, now Andaaz 2 — the Saiyaara snowball effect is reshaping the release calendar in a big way. Following Ajay Devgn’s Son of Sardar 2, which recently postponed its release from July 25 to August 1, filmmaker Suneel Darshan has now pushed his romantic drama Andaaz 2 from August 1 to August 8. Explaining the reason for the shift, Suneel Darshan says, “The unexpected, tumultuous opening of Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara and its anticipated sustained audience interest in the coming weeks have necessitated a reshuffling of release dates. With Son of Sardar 2 now arriving on August 1, I’ve moved Andaaz 2 to August 8.” He further adds, “The decision was also influenced by the paucity of available screens and the complexities of multiplex programming. Andaaz 2 features newcomers and, much like Saiyaara, needs an open week to give it the breathing space and visibility it deserves.” Darshan’s move reflects a growing industry trend where smaller or non-franchise films with fresh tal...

Mamata Banerjee REACTS to “brother” Shah Rukh Khan’s injury during King shoot: “Wish him speedy recovery”

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has reportedly sustained a back injury while filming an action sequence for his upcoming film King. The project, helmed by director Siddharth Anand, marks a significant collaboration between the superstar and his daughter, Suhana Khan, who plays the lead role. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to social media to express her concern for the actor. Posting on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, July 19, she wrote, “Reports regarding my brother Shah Rukh Khan sustaining muscular injuries during shooting make me worried. Wish him speedy recovery.” Reports regarding my brother Shah Rukh Khan sustaining muscular injuries during shooting make me worried. Wish him speedy recovery. @iamsrk — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) July 19, 2025 As reported earlier by Bollywood Hungama, Shah Rukh’s injury was first brought to public attention through insider updates on the film’s ongoing schedule. King, one of the most anticipated films currently in product...

Disneyland at 70: artists on the park’s five best rides – and why they still captivate

The California theme park is busier than ever. We asked artists, designers and historians to weigh in on the attractions that stand the test of time A visit to Disneyland can be an exhausting experience. The line for a ride can be hours long; there are hordes of overstimulated children and the sheer quantity of gift shops is overwhelming. When the park first opened, on 17 July 1955, an adult ticket cost $1 and kids were 50 cents: now a single day’s entry for one person can easily run $200 or more. Despite all the kitsch and cartoon capitalism, though, Disneyland still delivers moments of actual magic, and that’s largely due to the inventiveness of its theme park rides. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/amDMdn1 via IFTTT

Vikrant Massey to begin shooting for Sri Sri Ravi Shankar biopic next week; 90 per cent film to be shot in Colombo

Vikrant Massey continues to push the envelope with each project. The actor is now set to take on one of the most challenging roles of his career — portraying global spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in the upcoming biopic White. According to recent reports, a close independent industry source shares, “Vikrant Massey is set to fly out next week to begin shooting for his next project, White, where he steps into the role of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The film is being mounted on a mega scale and will be shot predominantly in Colombo, nearly 90% of it, with key technicians and experts who’ve previously worked on Narcos.” The movie will be produced under Siddharth Anand's Marflix Pictures and Mahaveer Jain Films, along with Peacecraft Pictures. White is said to chronicle significant milestones from the spiritual leader’s life. From his teachings on peace and global harmony to his efforts in humanitarian work and conflict resolution, the film aims to present a nuanced and inspiring narr...

SCOOP: Shah Rukh Khan injured on the sets of King; advised to take a one-month break from work

Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most hardworking actors in Indian Cinema, who has invested over 30 years of his life in entertaining the audience. With young blood finding him an inspiration icon, the superstar continues to work hard every day. At the age of 60, Shah Rukh Khan was shooting for some intense action sequences at the Golden Tobacco studio in Mumbai, where he met with an accident leading to an injury. “While exact details of the injury have been kept under wraps, Shah Rukh, along with his team, has travelled to the US for urgent medical attention. It’s nothing serious, but more of a muscular injury, as Shah Rukh over the years has injured multiple muscles of his body while performing stunts,” a source told Bollywood Hungama. The source informed that post the surgery, SRK is advised to be advised to take a one-month break from work. “The next schedule of King will now begin in September/October as SRK has been advised to take time off for recovery. On completely recovering fr...

Khushi Kapoor breaks silence on cosmetic procedures; says, “If we don’t do something about our looks then…”

Khushi Kapoor, daughter of the late Sridevi and sister to actress Janhvi Kapoor, recently spoke candidly about her cosmetic enhancements, crediting her honesty with breaking stigma in the glamour industry. In an interview with ETimes, Khushi addressed swirling rumours by stating plainly, “Yes, I have changed my looks. But everyone thinks I have done some 10–20 things on myself. It is obviously not the case. I don’t think going under the knife for your looks is such a big deal.” The actor, who made her debut with The Archies, emphasised the importance of transparency, saying, “For me, it is not okay to be dishonest with people around me about my looks. There are a lot of impressionable youngsters who follow us on the internet.” Khushi went on to point out the impossible expectations women often face, noting, “Plus, if we don't do something about our looks, then it is a problem and people will judge you for your looks, and if we do something for ourselves, feeding your insecuritie...

Rakesh Roshan undergoes neck angioplasty, recovering in Mumbai hospital

Veteran filmmaker and actor Rakesh Roshan, father of Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan, recently underwent a medical procedure for a health issue concerning his neck. The 74-year-old was admitted to Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital earlier this week, where doctors performed a carotid artery angioplasty — a procedure aimed at restoring proper blood flow to the brain by clearing blocked arteries in the neck. According to hospital sources, the surgery was successful, and Roshan is currently under observation in the recovery unit. A carotid artery angioplasty is often conducted when fatty deposits block the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain and head, increasing the risk of stroke. The procedure involves using a balloon-tipped catheter to widen the artery and improve blood flow, sometimes followed by the placement of a stent to keep the artery open. His daughter Sunaina Roshan confirmed the news and shared an update about his health in a brief conversation with Amar...